In a significant relief for local devotees, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has announced that a special Aadhaar-based entry system is being developed to enable residents of Puri to have convenient darshan of Lord Jagannath without waiting in long queues.
The proposed initiative is being implemented with technical support from the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC). Under the new system, eligible residents of Puri will be able to access the temple by scanning their Aadhaar cards, allowing quicker and more streamlined entry into the shrine.
Dedicated Facility for Local Devotees
Currently, devotees can enter the Jagannath Temple only through the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate), often resulting in long waiting times, especially during peak hours and festive occasions.
Local residents, many of whom visit the temple regularly for daily darshan and rituals, have long demanded a separate arrangement to reduce inconvenience. The Aadhaar-linked system is expected to address this issue by providing a dedicated and efficient entry mechanism for genuine residents.
Safeguards Against Misuse
The Law Minister stated that multiple verification measures are being incorporated into the system to ensure that only authentic residents of Puri can avail themselves of the facility. Authorities are working on safeguards to prevent misuse and maintain the security and sanctity of temple operations.
According to Harichandan, the initiative aims to balance easier access for local devotees with proper regulation and monitoring.
Improving the Darshan Experience
The proposed Aadhaar-based entry system is expected to significantly improve the darshan experience for thousands of Puri residents who visit the temple frequently. Once implemented, the facility will reduce crowd-related inconvenience while ensuring smooth movement of devotees within the temple premises.
